[Publib] Re: Fun-Tak

[Matthew Simon-pre-DESIGN Planning Associates]

Fun-Tak is a great product.  However, there is no guarantee that when it is removed that it will not damage paint over gypsum wall board.  In most cases it will not.  In some instances though, if the wall board wasn't primed or if the paint is inferior or has deteriorated because of age or moisture Dap Fun-Tak (or even 3-M blue painters' tape) can pull both paint and the paper wall board backing off the wall.

I have received about a half dozen responses from my suggestions that a) the wall board be covered with an acrylic posting surface, b) that a durable, vinyl wall covering be applied over the paint to serve as the posting surface c) that free standing bulletin boards be purchased and installed where patrons can see them.  Every one of of my respondents reported that the suggestions were good but staff were resistant to any discipline regarding signs.  

People, this is not a First Amendment issue.  Uncontrolled signage is NOT attractive or even functional.  Lots of studies have shown that the effectiveness of signage decreases as it proliferates.  It is easier to insist on some standardization and limit signage to approved and durable bulletin boards than it is to persuade your Trustees to approve a $5000 paint job.

Here's one more suggestion:  Airports are the best example of effective signage.  In airports, signage is limited.  You will never see a sign stuck on a wall in an airport with tacks, Fun-Tak, Scotch Tape, Magic Tape or Mounting Squares.  It is predictable:  Airport designers have made extensive study of what kind of signage is needed.  You will find remarkable consistency from airport to airport in terms of the information presented.  You will see monitors or boards indicated the status of flights, location of Baggage Claim, Ground Transportation, and Restrooms.  It is also attractive.  Certain fonts, typefaces and colors stand out.  People can find out what they want to know quickly and accurately without covering every book stack end, door and column with "signs."

Sticking "stuff" on walls detracts from our considerable efforts to make our library spaces attractive.  And I really believe that this is a problem easily solved--with the application of a little "Fun-Tak" of organizational discipline.

Matt Simon
pre-DESIGN Planning Associates, Inc.